Harrison Dunk is relieved to be back playing following a double injury blow which left him scratching his head.

The Cambridge United defender made his long-awaited U's return as a late sub in Saturday's win over Grimsby, having been sidelined for three months knee and hamstring setbacks.

The 28 year old is now ready to put what he feels has been the most frustrating few months of his career behind him and start his season from scratch.

"It's been probably the most frustrating time in my career," he said. "Normally with an injury you know when you're going to be back, but this has been an awkward one which has kept on a lot more than we thought it would."

It wasn't like I couldn't walk or anything, I was still very mobile but it wasn't quite there for a long time. It took a lot of patience but hopefully its behind me now we've found the root of it.

Dunk in action against Manchester United three years ago

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"It's such a relief to back. I've had injuries but never one with so much uncertainty. It affected me a but and I couldn't get my head around it, but now I've come through the other side. Now it's just about getting my fitness back up so my season can start over."

Dunk will travel to Guiseley with the U's on Sunday in the FA Cup, and as one of only two survivors from Cambridge's famous fourth round clash with Manchester United three years ago - and will use his tales of Old Trafford to help motivate the current crop.

"Everything about that day was brilliant, from the buzz around Cambridge to a full house for the warm up, which is unheard of, and looking at million of pounds worth of talent on the other side of the pitch," Dunk added.

"I remember looking at Antonio Valencia's arms, he looked like something out of a gym magazine. They were so big and strong. I got tackled by Ander Herrera, and by the time I got up the ball was on the other side of the pitch, I couldn't believe how quick everything was.

"When we saw the team sheet for the replay it was unreal, players like Di Maria and Van Persie. I got injured the week before so I was in the stands. But to get there again, games like Sunday's are just as important."